Some alternatives to help heal Rosacea

The condition of Rosacea commonly afflicts light-skinned middle-aged women aged between 50 and 60, but in many cases beginning from 30. It is characterised by facial redness and tiny pimples and can also present as swollen nose and dry itchy eyes.

Triggers for this condition may include heat, alcohol, spicy foods and embarrassment. All these can aggravate the condition. However, causes are unknown although genetic, dietary, environmental, vascualar and inflammatory factors have been considered possible.

As there are few cures for Rosacea especially without side effects, sufferers often turn to alternative treatments. There are some herbal things you can try but it is important to be careful and consult a doctor as some herbs can be more irritating than curative.

However, most Rosacia sufferers do find effective herbal cures, according to Jane Schwanke in an article from the Nov 1, 2006 issue of Dermatology Times. The most effective herbs, she says, are feverfew, lavender, chamomile, green tea, liquorice, oatmeal and camphor.

Dermatologist Jessica Wu explains that the active ingredients are glycyrrhizinic acid found in liquorice, and the immunomodulating properties of feverfew.n She suggests that green tea extract may help Rosacea that is exacerbated by sun sensitivity. She also says that lavender and chamomile are potent anti-inflammatory agents and that oatmeal is great against itching. Do take care when using camphor and tea tree oil as they may be irritating in too high a concentration.

Dr Mary P Lupo, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University, advocates use of chamomile on the website MotherNature.com. The recommendation is to steep a few bags or a handful of fresh flowers of chamomile in three cups of boiling water for ten minutes. The brew should be strained and then put in the refrigerator to cool. Once the infusion is cooled you can then dip a cotton cloth into it and apply it to the affected area on the face.

A low inflammatory diet is recommended consisting of fish, grains, beans and vegetables and with low sugar content. The omega-3s found in cold water fish as well as flax seeds can be effective in reducing inflammation as well as omega-3 and also garlic capsules.

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